The last time I posted I wrote about our upcoming first crack at a Stand Up Comedy Night (see Stand Up for Stand Up) here at Mancala Monk Board Game Café. That took place a couple of nights ago and MAN was it a BLAST. Our Comics for the night, Jason Allen, Megan Pettit and Brian Millward, plus our venerable host mr. Clifford Myers, had everybody in stitches from beginning to end.

Recipe for success: Have a great idea. Have some great people around you who share your enthusiasm. Have no idea what you are doing. Have a great time.​Roughly 48 hours before “Stage Time” I realize … we don’t have a … Stage.

How to make a stage (also known as how not to make a stage): Take some old beat up wooden skids. Go buy some plywood. Screw the plywood to the – you guessed it – skids. Throw an area rug on top? Or, if you really want to show off, like we did, by some of those puzzle-piece foam-squares and use spray-adhesive to attach them to the plywood. Now you’re cooking with gas! ​Roughly 24 hours before the show, I realize … this could go horribly wrong. A comedy show in a Board Game Café? Really? Did we promote this well enough? What am I going to do with seating? With lighting? Did I just hire 4 Stand Up performers whom I have never actually heard perform in my life? Is there any way to not lose money tonight after the talent has been paid?

How to screen Stand Up Comedians: Get your college buddy who you haven’t seen in years, who says he knows what he is doing, to select the talent and host the show. Pray. TRUST.

Roughly 1 hour before the show I realize … you shouldn’t bother pursuing your weird stupid ideas, you’re only going to fail miserably and embarrass yourself in front of an audience. (I wonder how many Stand Up Comedians and performers feel that way.)

Roughly 1 hour after the show I realize … that was AMAZING. I am a genius. The stage turned out. The people turned up. Things turned around. The Comics were A+++ All-Stars. Everyone had a tremendously fun time. The world is a good and wonderful place. God loves me. ​How to host a successful Comedy Night in Hamilton, Ontario: Hire Clifford Myers, Jason Allen, Megan Pettit and Brian Millward. Thanks guys for everything, can’t wait for October 25th when we “go for it” one more time.